The Botanist Islay Dry Gin is made by Bruichladdich Distillery on the Isle of Islay, Scotland. It’s distilled from 100% wheat spirit, using spring water from the island. The gin uses 31 botanicals in total, of which 22 are hand-foraged from Islay and surroundings, and 9 are classic gin botanicals like juniper, coriander, orris root etc. It is distilled for around 17 hours using a unique Lomond still (nicknamed “Ugly Betty”) and bottled at 46% ABV.
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: Crystal clear, bright, with a clean viscosity and no ageing or colouring.
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Aroma: Fresh juniper up front; citrus peel (lemon/orange); herbal notes (mint, thyme); subtle florals; hints of earth and meadow herbs.
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Palate: Smooth entry; juniper remains central but balanced by citrus zest, gentle spice, floral tones and sweet herbal complexity (mint, meadow-sweet, etc.).
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Finish: Medium to long; clean and dry with lingering herbal-floral echoes, light citrus, soft licorice or vanilla undertones.
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ABV: 46%
Serving Suggestions:
- Best enjoyed neat or with a single large ice cube to let the aromatics unfurl.
- Excellent in a premium Gin & Tonic—use a light tonic, large ice cubes, and garnish with a sprig of thyme or rosemary plus a twist of lemon or grapefruit.
- Also works beautifully in classic gin cocktails like a Martini (dry, with a lemon twist) or a Negroni, where its herbal and citrus notes add depth.